Pictures: Athletic careers cut short

FILE, ORLANDO SENTINEL

Former Pittsburgh Pirate, Roberto Clemente, was a 15-time All-Star, two-time world champion, 12-time Golden Glove Award winner and four-time National League batting champion before he died in a plane crash in 1972, shortly after reaching his 3,000th hit. The Hall of Famer was on his way to Nicaragua on New Year's Eve to deliver relief supplies to victims of an earthquake when the over-loaded plane crashed into the ocean. He was 38.

Former Pittsburgh Pirate, Roberto Clemente, was a 15-time All-Star, two-time world champion, 12-time Golden Glove Award winner and four-time National League batting champion before he died in a plane crash in 1972, shortly after reaching his 3,000th hit. The Hall of Famer was on his way to Nicaragua on New Year's Eve to deliver relief supplies to victims of an earthquake when the over-loaded plane crashed into the ocean. He was 38. (FILE, ORLANDO SENTINEL)

Making it to the pros is unlikely for most athletes, and staying there is even harder. Even those with the talent and potential have had their careers cut short by serious injuries or death. Here's a look at former professionals, college stars and local athletes who never made it past their primes.